Mike Clevinger declines mutual option with White Sox amid list of moves

Mike Clevinger declines mutual option with White Sox amid list of moves originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago

Two prominent pitchers from the White Sox will not be returning to the team next year.

The White Sox made an official announcement that they will decline Liam Hendriks’ $15 million club option. In addition, Mike Clevinger has declined his mutual option worth $12 million.

As part of the agreement, the White Sox will buy out Clevinger for $4 million.

Back in December 2022, the White Sox signed Clevinger to a one-year deal with a mutual option for the 2024 season. However, the situation took a turn when Clevinger faced accusations of domestic violence and child abuse. MLB began investigating the allegations made during the previous summer.

Despite the investigation, MLB decided not to take disciplinary action against Clevinger due to insufficient evidence. This cleared his path to continue playing for the White Sox.

Clevinger played a significant role on the mound for the Sox this season. He made 24 starts, pitching a total of 131.1 innings. Throughout the season, he only landed on the injured list twice. Clevinger ended the season with a 3.77 ERA and 1.226 WHIP, striking out 110 batters while only walking 40.

His presence would have been valuable as a veteran arm to help bridge the gap between the current White Sox roster and future starters. However, Clevinger didn’t show enough motivation to commit to the team. Although he didn’t explicitly say so at the end of the season, he left his future with the team uncertain heading into the offseason.

When asked about his wish to return, Clevinger responded, “We’ll see. See what [Chris] Getz and the boys want to do. They know I’m all ears and I’m open to talk. I’ve had some good conversations with Pedro [Grifol] and Getz and [Ethan] Katz. So, we’ll see,” as told to NBC Sports Chicago’s Chuck Garfien.

Earlier in the season, the White Sox placed Clevinger on waivers, allowing him to sign with any team interested in picking up his contract. However, no team signed him, and he returned to the White Sox to finish the season.

In addition to Clevinger, Hendriks will also not be returning to the White Sox. The organization declined his club option, but they will still be paying him $15 million in increments over the next 10 years.

The White Sox have also made moves sending Trayce Thompson and Clint Frazier to Triple-A Charlotte.

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